ERPs for SMBs Post-Close

by a professional from The University of Texas at Austin - Red McCombs School of Business

2 months ago

At Mainshares, we’re always striving to learn from the experiences of searchers and operators who’ve successfully navigated challenges.

One area we’re particularly curious about is ERP migrations or implementations after acquiring a business. If you’ve been through this process, I’d love to hear your insights!

Key questions we’re exploring:

What motivated your ERP change? (e.g., reporting improvements, automation, operational efficiency, scaling needs)

How did you approach implementation? Did you use an ERP software selection process or partner with an implementation firm?

What are the biggest lessons you learned along the way?

Thank you in advance for sharing your wisdom!

1 like
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5 comments

professional from INSEAD

I completely agree with ^Searchfunder member‌ and ^Searchfunder member‌. A well defined process, people roles and definition of fundamental business data objects (Projects, Work Orders, Assemblies, Travellers, Carts, Invoices, etc etc) is a must have prerequisite before you start thinking ERP implementation or change an ERP.

For an SMBs, I also like Zoho and there's another name to look into: Odoo.

1 month ago | like reply | 0 likes

searcher from University of Michigan - Flint

True enterprise ERP systems, like NetSuite, SAP, etc., are hugely expensive and typically unnecessary for businesses the size tackled by most search funders. Unless there's a very specific requirement, I don't think they bring a lot of value to businesses that are sub-$20MM or so. I think many businesses can do very well up into the $50MM+ range with properly tied-together systems for bookkeeping, inventory, customer management, etc. I personally use Zoho for our business, but there are a universe of appropriate options out there.

1 month ago | like reply | 0 likes

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